Experiences in Kyoto

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1,715 experiences

Koto lesson & private concertPrivate Tour
Experience1 hr

Koto lesson & private concert

You can enjoy both playing Koto and listening to Koto performance!! Start time>>>10:30/ 14:00 How about a private koto lesson and live performance at Kyomachiya? At first, we will introduce about the instrument, simple explanation about the koto and how to play it. Let's have fun playing the Koto by yourself! You can play several songs and join the ensemble with professional musicians. After playing, enjoy a private koto concert!! At the end, you will receive a certificate of experience completion. Enjoy a relaxing time sitting in a chair in a renovated Kyoto townhouse, playing or listening to the koto. ~~Flow of the plan~~ ① Greetings and explanation about the koto 5 minutes ② Explanation of how to set up the koto nails and how to play it 10 minutes ③ Try the koto playing practice "Sakura Sakura"! →Ensemble 15 minutes ④Change the tuning, and practice several songs according to your preference & ensemble 15 minutes ⑤Performance by professional Koto player 10 minutes ⑥Give a certificate of completion, photo & question time 5 minutes

5.0(2 reviews)Free cancellation
Kyoto Gion Backstreets and Geisha Traditions TourNew On Viator
Experience2 hrs

Kyoto Gion Backstreets and Geisha Traditions Tour

Discover the timeless beauty and cultural elegance of Kyoto through our Kyoto: Gion Hidden Gems & Geisha Culture Tour. This immersive experience takes guests through the historic streets of Gion, one of Kyoto’s most iconic districts, known for its traditional machiya houses, tea houses, and enduring geisha culture. During the tour, guests will explore famous cultural landmarks such as Yasaka Shrine, Hanami Koji Street, Gion Shinbashi, Tatsumi Bridge, and the historic Minamiza Kabuki Theater while learning about Kyoto’s rich history, traditions, and artistic heritage. The tour also offers opportunities to experience the atmosphere of old Kyoto and discover hidden local spots away from crowded tourist areas. Led by knowledgeable local guides, this experience combines history, storytelling, traditional culture, and scenic beauty, making it ideal for travelers seeking a deeper and more authentic understanding of Kyoto and Japan.

5.0(498 reviews)Free cancellation
Kyoto: Philosopher’s Path and Hidden Temple Cultural WalkPrivate Tour
Experience3 hrs

Kyoto: Philosopher’s Path and Hidden Temple Cultural Walk

This tour isn’t just a walk — it’s a journey through Kyoto’s natural beauty, spiritual history, and quiet elegance. Led by an expert local guide, you’ll explore the Philosopher’s Path area, a peaceful canal-side landscape beloved for its seasonal charm and contemplative atmosphere. Depending on the option you choose, the experience may include several remarkable temples and landmarks: the moss-covered serenity of Hōnen-in, the architectural grace of Eikan-dō, and the presence of Nanzen-ji with its grand Sanmon gate and red-brick aqueduct. Each of these places offers more than scenery—they provide a deeper connection to Kyoto’s Zen spirit and cultural heart. With a relaxed pace and thoughtful commentary, this experience invites you to go beyond sightseeing and discover the quieter side of Kyoto. It’s an ideal way for travelers to slow down and experience the atmosphere that has inspired monks, philosophers, and artists for centuries.

5.0(2 reviews)Free cancellation
Kyoto 12 types Japanese Sake Tasting ExperienceNew On Viator
Experience30 min

Kyoto 12 types Japanese Sake Tasting Experience

Uncover the rich tradition of Japanese sake with a guided tasting featuring 12 distinct varieties, each chosen to highlight the unique aspects of this beloved beverage. A knowledgeable host guides you through the details of each sake — from the rice and brewing region to the flavor notes that set them apart. Ideal for novices and enthusiasts alike, this experience lets you compare flavors and deepen your appreciation of sake's complexity. Located in Kyoto's vibrant Kawaramachi district, My Sake World offers a welcoming space to explore and purchase your favorites, taking home a piece of Japan's sake heritage. Planning your Kyoto itinerary? This tasting fits easily between temple visits and sightseeing, thanks to its central Kawaramachi location. We recommend booking in advance, though walk-ins are welcome if space allows — an easy, English-friendly way to add cultural depth to your trip.

Free cancellation
Private Koto Lesson in Kyoto with a Professional Koto PerformerPrivate Tour
Experience1 hr 20 min

Private Koto Lesson in Kyoto with a Professional Koto Performer

Owner is a professional Koto performer, so you can learn from expert instructors. Here you can experience playing the koto, which is a traditional Japanese instrument and indispensable for formal ceremonies in Japan. A professional player of koto will teach you how to play the koto. We will teach you to play “Sakura“. Everyone from 3 years old to elderly people can play, so we encourage you to experience this with your family together. Equipment necessary for lessons, such as musical instruments and music notation are all available.

5.0(24 reviews)Free cancellation
Kyoto: Private Gion District Photoshoot ExperiencePrivate Tour
Experience1 hr 30 min

Kyoto: Private Gion District Photoshoot Experience

Experience the timeless atmosphere of Gion and Higashiyama through a private photoshoot with a professional Kyoto photographer who captures more than just posed portraits. Explore iconic locations such as Yasaka Pagoda, Sannenzaka, Maruyama Park, and the hidden streets of Gion while enjoying natural posing guidance and a relaxed photography experience. With flexible 1-hour to 6-hour sessions, you can choose a short session at an iconic location or spend more time exploring Kyoto’s traditional scenery and creating a diverse collection of photographs. Perfect for honeymoons, engagements, proposals, anniversaries, birthdays, graduations, family trips, and romantic getaways, this private Gion photography experience lets you preserve the beauty and atmosphere of Kyoto for years to come.

4.9(71 reviews)Free cancellation
Kyoto Fushimi Inari Morning/Evening 2-Hour Tour: Beat the CrowdsNew On Viator
Experience1 hr

Kyoto Fushimi Inari Morning/Evening 2-Hour Tour: Beat the Crowds

Join our Fushimi Inari 2-hour walking tour to experience Kyoto’s iconic shrine through fascinating legends and local lore. Explore top highlights like Senbon Torii, Omokaru-ishi, and serene bamboo paths while snapping incredible, crowd-free photos at our favorite secret spots! ⭐Good to Know Before You Join⭐ ・Active Walking & Stairs: Covers approx. 3,500–4,000 steps with shrine stairs. Comfortable sneakers are strongly recommended. (Not suitable for strollers/wheelchairs) ・Small Group (Max 8): Enjoy a relaxed, conversational vibe with plenty of time for photos—never feel rushed in a large group! ・WhatsApp or iMessage Required: Please provide a accurate phone number at booking for quick meeting details and photo sharing. ・Strict On-Time Departure: To respect all guests, we start on time. Late arrivals cannot join (non-refundable/non-changeable). Please arrive 10 minutes early.

5.0(62 reviews)Free cancellation
Kyoto Private Vegan Cooking : Shojin Ryori with a Local HostPrivate Tour
Experience2 hr 15 min

Kyoto Private Vegan Cooking : Shojin Ryori with a Local Host

You can have an Kyoto specific culinary experience in this class. Japan has a long history of vegan cuisine which developed at Buddhist temples. Since killing animals is strictly prohibited in Buddhism, so all the dishes generally don’t contain any animal products such as meat and fish. It's very healthy and well-balanced cuisine featuring seasonal vegetables, soybeans(tofu), grains, seaweed or many fermented foods. We make a variety of dishes inspired by classic Buddhist cooking with modern twists. These delicious dishes make the most of the original taste of local ingredients. It's not difficult to cook at all but you will find the delicacy of Japanese cuisine in every detail of the dish. I'm sure you can enjoy Japanese authentic cooking which you are not be able to taste in the restaurant.

5.0(22 reviews)Free cancellation
Kyoto Toei Studio Park Ticket Samurai Show Ninja Village
Experience7 hrs

Kyoto Toei Studio Park Ticket Samurai Show Ninja Village

Don’t miss your chance to travel back in time at Toei Kyoto Studio Park, where the world of samurai, ninja, and Edo-era drama comes to life. This ticket gives you full access to an immersive movie set used in real Japanese period films. Watch thrilling ninja and sword-fighting shows, wander through recreated historical streets, and even dress up in authentic costumes for unforgettable photos. Kids and adults alike will love the action-packed attractions, from ninja trick houses to anime-themed exhibits like Kamen Rider and Super Sentai. Enjoy Kyoto-style meals and fun snacks at themed cafes, then shop for unique souvenirs including traditional crafts and samurai gear. Whether you're a film lover, history buff, or just looking for a one-of-a-kind cultural experience, this is your ticket to step inside Japan’s cinematic legacy. Book now and make your Kyoto adventure truly unforgettable.

Free cancellation
Guided Photoshoot of Fushimi Inari Shrine and Secret Bamboo GrovePrivate Tour
Experience1 hr

Guided Photoshoot of Fushimi Inari Shrine and Secret Bamboo Grove

Visit Fushimi Inari & the secret bamboo grove that locals don't even know exists! Two contrasting and beautiful locations in one photoshoot! A rare location to get so many various backdrops in a 60 minute photoshoot. Details: ■ 60-minute photoshoot ■ A private & exclusive booking ■ 75 professionally taken and edited shots (in Jpeg) for solo / 90 + for couples *I will always try to add some extras* ■ I can guide you in a variety of poses and capture some great, natural candid moments too On the day: ■ Meet at your choice of JR or Keihan Fushimi Inari Stations ■ Guided to the main shrine where we will take a series of candid shots and poses along the way ■ We'll then shoot at the secret bamboo grove and a hidden area ■ Finally, we will go through the famous red Torii gates and capture the best shots of you After: ■ Images edited & sent via Google Drive 1-3 days later Extras: ■ RAW files available for an extra 5000 yen Check out my IG account: hugh_dornan_photography

5.0(16 reviews)Free cancellation
Kyoto Rickshaw TourPrivate Tour
Experience30 min

Kyoto Rickshaw Tour

Step into an authentic Japanese rickshaw for the ride of a lifetime, through some of the most scenic and historic districts in Kyoto, Japan. Explore the intriguing wooden buildings and stone alleys (maybe even spotting a geisha or two) in Kyoto’s famed Higashiyama area, all with a knowledgeable local guide and rickshaw driver. This authentic, customizable Kyoto adventure is a fun introduction to this beautiful city.

4.9(219 reviews)Free cancellation

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